Why Did the FAA Ban Most Helicopter Flights Near Reagan National Airport (DCA)?

The Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) has issued an Interim Final Rule (IFR). This rule makes permanent the restrictions on most helicopter and powered-lift operations near Ronald Reagan Washington National Airport (DCA). The IFR was published on January 22, 2026, and took effect immediately.

Background on the Airspace Safety

This permanent rule is a direct response. It follows the deadly midair collision on January 29, 2025. A US Army Sikorsky UH-60L Black Hawk helicopter struck a PSA Airlines MHIRJ CRJ700. The regional jet was operating as American Eagle Flight 5342. The crash occurred over the Potomac River and killed 67 people.

The FAA's action is intended to mitigate the potential for midair collisions. It addresses insufficient separation between fixed-wing aircraft and vertical-lift operations. The National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) had recommended a permanent ban in March 2025.

Key Details of the Restrictions

The rule establishes a permanent Washington DC flight ban for non-essential rotorcraft. This restriction covers the airspace between the Memorial Bridge and the Wilson Bridge. The area is a critical corridor for Reagan National Airport traffic.

• Non-essential flights are prohibited. This includes routine training and proficiency evaluation flights.
• Essential helicopter operations are the only exception. These include lifesaving medical flights. They also cover active national security and law enforcement missions. Transportation for the US President or Vice-President is also exempt.

The FAA stated that essential flights should be "exceedingly rare."

Operational and Procedural Changes

The FAA helicopter restrictions also include new operational requirements. These changes aim to enhance DCA airspace safety for all traffic.

• The rule prohibits certain helicopter operations when Runways 15 and 33 are active. This eliminates mixed traffic during critical phases of flight.
• The use of visual separation is eliminated within five nautical miles of DCA.
• Military agreements were revised to require ADS-B Out broadcasting. This helps track military aircraft locations.
• Helicopter zones and routes were moved farther from DCA flight paths.

Industry Impact and Next Steps

The Interim Final Rule codifies the temporary measures into law. It significantly impacts non-exempt helicopter operators in the region. The focus is on preventing a recurrence of the January 2025 tragedy.

The FAA is accepting public comments on the IFR. This feedback will be considered before the agency issues a final rule. This process ensures transparency in the regulatory change. The NTSB safety recommendation has now been fully implemented by the regulator.

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